GNC Engineer Verified today
About the Role
Turion Space is seeking a Satellite Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GNC) Engineer to join our team in Irvine, CA. You will design, develop, and implement guidance, navigation, and control systems for satellite missions. Working closely with systems engineering and flight software teams, you will design mission profiles and algorithms, lead projects, develop novel algorithms, and contribute to the technical strategy of satellite programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and implement advanced GNC algorithms and control systems for Rendezvous and Proximity Operation (RPO) missions
- Conduct simulations, perform hardware-in-the-loop testing, and guide on-orbit testing to validate and verify GNC algorithms and control systems
- Conduct mission analysis, trajectory optimization, and orbit determination to ensure mission objectives are met
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of GNC subsystems with other systems
- Analyze and optimize system performance, including stability, robustness, and response time
- Support commissioning of satellites on-orbit and support the DROID.002 platform currently in Low Earth Orbit
- Drive continuous improvement of GNC processes, methodologies, and best practices
- Stay updated with latest advancements and research in GNC engineering for small satellite systems
Minimum Qualifications
- Ph.D., MS with 1-2 years of experience, or BS with 2-4 years of experience in an engineering discipline with focus on control systems, orbital mechanics, or similar field
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or MATLAB for algorithm development and simulation
- Technical competency in at least one major aspect of GNC engineering: guidance, navigation, controls, modeling and simulation, or GNC testing
- Familiarity with sensors used in satellite guidance and navigation, such as star trackers, sun sensors, and GPS, at a senior level
- Proficient communication and teamwork abilities, with capability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable, with ability to thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment
- Ability to obtain a Secret and/or TS/SCI clearance
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with polarity and performance testing of GNC sensors and actuators
- Experience in designing and/or prototyping space systems software
- Hardware-in-the-loop and Software-in-the-loop testing experience
- Experience with Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO)
- Experience with low thrust trajectories and spacecraft with delta-V propulsion systems
- Knowledge of orbital mechanics, trajectory optimization, and mission analysis
- Experience implementing optimization algorithms
- Mission operations experience: investigation of on-orbit anomalies, working with mission operations or directly on the ops floor during a mission
Compensation and Benefits
Salary range: $100,000 to $135,000 USD.
Full-time employees are eligible for:
- Equity in Turion Space
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) plan with 3% Employer Direct Contribution
- Generous vacation, personal, and sick days, plus holidays
- Paid parental leave
- No-cost Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Professional development opportunities including training, workshops, and courses
- Team building activities and company-sponsored events
Employees may be asked to support alternate shifts, extended shifts, and/or travel during peak work periods.
Employment Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or software source code subject to U.S. export controls. Applicant must be: (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident, (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. section 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. section 1158, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.